Differential Diagnosis for Pediatric Facial Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dental Abscess: This is a common cause of facial swelling in children, often resulting from a bacterial infection of a tooth. The swelling can be localized to the affected area and may be accompanied by pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Periorbital Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and soft tissues around the eye, which can cause swelling, redness, and warmth of the affected area.
- Parotitis: Inflammation of the parotid gland, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection, leading to swelling and pain in the cheek and jaw area.
- Allergic Reaction: An allergic reaction to an insect bite, food, or medication can cause facial swelling, which may be accompanied by hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ludwig's Angina: A severe infection of the submandibular space, which can cause rapid swelling and airway compromise, requiring prompt medical attention.
- Orbital Abscess: A collection of pus in the orbit, which can cause proptosis, vision loss, and cranial nerve palsies if left untreated.
- Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis: A rare but life-threatening condition caused by a blood clot in the cavernous sinus, which can lead to facial swelling, proptosis, and neurological deficits.
Rare Diagnoses
- Hemangioma: A benign vascular tumor that can cause facial swelling, often present at birth or appearing in early childhood.
- Lymphangioma: A rare congenital anomaly of the lymphatic system, which can cause facial swelling and may be associated with other systemic abnormalities.
- Eosinophilic Granuloma: A rare condition characterized by an abnormal proliferation of eosinophils, which can cause facial swelling, bone lesions, and other systemic symptoms.